On Thursday, March 2nd, the BGCNW had it’s annual Youth of the Year Award Ceremony at Crabtree’s Kittle House, in Chappaqua, NY. Six incredible teens interviewed and spoke in front of a panel of 5 judges. After deliberations, three finalists were announced. One-by-one, the three finalists gave their speeches to the over 140 attendees.
Junior at Fox Lane High School, Xio Nieves, was awarded the BGCNW Wilfred E. Jennings Awards, recognizing him for his dedication to leadership, advocacy and service. Xio is junior staff member, member of the Liberty Keystone Club, and 2-time Youth of the Year participant.
Zayaan Hussain, Junior at Horace Greeley High School, member of the Marlins swim team, and volunteer Summer Camp counselor at the Club, was awarded the Chris Cutri Memorial Award. This award is given in recognition of Zayaan’s positive attitude, perseverance, kindness, integrity, strength in overcoming adversary, and demonstration of fair play. This is Zayaan’s third year participating in Youth of the Year.
Finally, the winner of the title of BGCNW 2023 Youth of the Year was awarded to Valentina Cabrera. Valentina is a junior at Brewster High School. She is the Secretary of the Liberty Keystone Club. She will go on to represent the BGCNW at the State level of the Youth of the Year competition.